Mercedes comes super charged now
H. Kishie Singh

YEARS ago Mercedes had promised the Indian auto aficionado a new car every year. True to their word, they have launched the latest in their C series for 2003. The new C-200 replaces the C-180, which lacked performance. The car was considered by many to be sluggish and slow. To overcome this, though the new C class has the same engine capacity 1800 cc (1796 cc to be exact!), a super charger has been added. Simply translated, it means the maximum power output has been upped from 124 hp to 158 hp. The car is the C-200 K. The K stands for kompressor, which is German for super charger.

The four-cylinder engine now develops a peak torque of 221 Newton-metres (Nm) between 3,500 r.p.m and 4,500 r.p.m. Both the increase in hp and Nm make a tremendous difference in the acceleration of the car. This gives the C-200K sports car-like performance.

"The new C-class Kompressor is intended to satiate the motoring passions of its customers and provide true value for money", says Hans-Michael Huber, MDand CEO of Daimler-Chrysler India. He adds, "The Mercedes-Benz C class, the safest car in its category, is reasserting its role as the technological leader in this market segment with a new generation four-cylinder engine and top-class technologies that open up new dimensions in performance, handling dynamics and driving pleasure".

The C-200 K has several features that were options on the C-180. These include alloy wheels, electrically folding outside rear view mirrors, steering wheel and gearshift lever in leather trim, sun visors with illuminated mirrors, and an electric roller sun-blind for rear window.

Safety is enhanced with windscreen wipers equipped with a rain sensor. At the first drop of rain they start working automatically!

The C-200 K (petrol) standard car is Rs 22,86,682, inclusive of local sales tax. The C-200 CDI (diesel) is Rs 24,69,403.

Leather upholstery will set you back by another Rs 76,174,00 and metallic paint costs Rs 57,065,00. Automatic transmission costs Rs 1,37,055.

Mercedes also has the largest choice — after MUL — of vehicles to offer customers. It has has variants: petrol to diesel engines. The price range depends on the engine and size. The India-made cars are available immediately. The only delay could be if the customer has specified a colour in great demand. That means a 30-day wait. Mercedes sell about 600 units a year.

Incidentally, if you want a car that is not being manufactured in India, you can still pamper yourself with the greatest of ease. Mercedes will import the car of your choice and deliver it in 30 days. No licences, no bureaucratic barriers, no hassles. Pay in Indian rupees and have your heart’s desire delivered to you!

Happy motoring!